Manal Awad, Egypt's Minister of Local Development, announced the rollout of enhanced local development programmes for the fiscal year (FY) 2024/25. These programmes, encompassing six key areas, boast a total investment of EGP 31.8bn. The six programmes focus on Local Economic Development, Urban and Rural Development, Transport, Roads, and Public Transport, Environmental Improvement, Local and Community Services Support, and Local Administration and Technical Support. Awad emphasized a focus on regional development, allocating 41% of total investments to Upper Egypt governorates.This aligns with the government's goal of balanced development and attracting public and private investment to the region. The Local Economic Development Programme received over EGP 2.6bn. This programme will finance projects like establishing and equipping markets, craft areas, and production clusters. It also aims to enhance mechanized slaughterhouses and facilitate permanent and temporary exhibitions. This focus empowers local authorities to drive economic activity, create jobs, and enhance the attractiveness of their governorates. The Urban and Rural Development Programme received 22% of the total investment, amounting to EGP 6.9bn. These funds will contribute to integrated and sustainable development in both rural and urban areas, aiming to bridge development gaps. The Roads, Transport, and Public Transport Programme received the highest allocation (38%) with over EGP 12.2bn.This programme will improve connections between urban settlements and enhance local roads and public transport efficiency. Notably, this is the first time these projects are planned within a unified framework, with clear allocation of responsibilities between governorates and the central government. This approach aims to expand local authorities' capabilities and empower them to better address local needs. Since the adoption of these programmes in January 2024, the Ministries of Local Development, Planning and Economic Development, and International Cooperation have delivered training programs for relevant personnel. This included 22 employees from the Ministry's General Diwan and 180 employees from planning and follow-up directorates across governorates, centers, and cities. The Ministry of Local Development is committed to ongoing training to improve the efficiency and capabilities of local administration units.
